Schützenfest Lingener Bürgerschützen (Pfingstfest)

Lingener Bürgerschützen — since 1838

The Lingener Bürgerschützen von 1838 e.V. (LBSV) are among the oldest marksmen's associations in the Emsland. For almost 190 years, they have carried on the tradition of the Lingener Bürgerschützen and are an important part of the city's club life. With their Pentecost festival, they shape one of the most important festival days in Lingen's summer calendar.

Wilhelmshöhe — historic festival grounds

The venue for the Pentecost festival is the Wilhelmshöhe in Lingen — the traditional Schützenplatz (marksmen's square) with a shooting range, festival tent, and large green areas. Over the Pentecost weekend, the Wilhelmshöhe is transformed into a festival world with a dance tent, catering, shooting ranges, and an extensive program.

Bogenbinden — a unique custom

A special feature of the Lingener Schützenfest is the traditional Bogenbinden (bow tying). In the days leading up to the festival, club members artfully decorate Maibogen (May poles) made of brushwood, flowers, and ribbons — they adorn the festival grounds and the entrances to the Wilhelmshöhe, creating the unmistakable visual atmosphere of the Lingener Pfingstfest. This tradition is maintained collectively and is considered the highlight of the preparations.

Five days of festivities

The Pentecost festival lasts for five days, from Saturday (May 23) to Wednesday (May 27). The schedule typically includes:

• Saturday: Erection of the bows, opening of the festival, first evening celebrations
• Pentecost Sunday: Festival service, shooting competitions, King's dinner, dancing
• Pentecost Monday: Grand parade through Lingen, proclamation of the king, family afternoon, dance evening
• Tuesday: Shooting competitions, Frühschoppen (morning pint), further program items
• Wednesday: Closing evening and winding down

Community and Civic Tradition

The Lingener Bürgerschützenverein is a civic association in the traditional sense: members include men and women from all social classes in the city. The Pentecost festival is therefore not just a club festival, but a city festival with broad participation from the citizens of Lingen.